Group Programs
The Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center offers interactive exhibits and environmental education programs. Come learn about the Preserve's natural environment and rich history of the Lenape, the Free Blacks of Sandy Ground, the clay-miners, and organic farmer Herbert Gericke. Historical artifacts as well as wildlife specimens native to Staten Island's south shore are on display. Visitors can get up close and personal with live animals, enjoy the touch discovery station, look through a children's stereoscope or play in the kid's activity area. Be sure to venture outside and explore the miles of trails that wander among meadows, forests, wetlands, streams and to Sharrotts Pond.
The Interpretive Center offers environmental education programs year round for schools at all grade levels as well as interpretive programs, hikes, and themed walks for youth organizations and the general public. Contact the Center for more information on public, school, scout or camp programs.
Hours of Operation
- The Park Office, located at 83 Nielsen Ave, Staten Island, NY is open 9 AM - 5 PM daily. Phone: (718) 967-1976
The Preserve gounds are open dawn to dusk.
-
- The Interpretive Center is open Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm and Sundays 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm with exhibits, classroom space, games and access to Preserve trails.
-
Fees & Rates
- Program Fees
-
- All programs are FREE of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
-
CPP Hiking Club
Sunday, June 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Get outside and enjoy the
beauty of our park during this monthly hiking club! We will hike up to 2 miles.
All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
CPP Hiking Club
Sunday, June 1, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Get outside and enjoy the
beauty of our park during this monthly hiking club! We will hike up to 2 miles.
All ages. Trails are not stroller friendly. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Tot Time
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Pride Outside: Picnic & Guided Hike
Thursday, June 5, 2025 05:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Pack your own picnic and
join us for lawn games and socializing followed by an optional 2.5 mile
"Rainbow Loop" hike beginning at 6:30pm in celebration of Pride Month! Cold
picnics only, grills are not permitted in the park. All ages. Trails are not
stroller friendly. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Clay Pit Care: Gericke Farm Planting
Saturday, June 7, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Volunteer at Clay Pit Ponds
State Park Preserve to help us keep our park clean and healthy! During Clay Pit
Care: Gericke Farm Planting, we will be planting fruits and veggies in our farm
field. All tools provided. All ages, but best suited for ages 8+. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required